He’s not there yet, of course. He’s not even the champion. But he’s already being compared to Jose Aldo, and the comparisons are apt. Barao opened up his career with a loss way back in 2005, but has remained undefeated since that point in time, racking up an astounding twenty-seven wins with a no contest thrown in the middle for good measure. He’s dangerous in all areas, with fluid striking and the kind of devastating submission game that allowed him to submit Brad Pickett at UFC 138 for the biggest win of his career. Long story short, he’s really good.

Scott Jorgensen is a perennial bantamweight contender. Since losing to Dominick Cruz just over a year ago in the final WEC main event, Jorgensen has scored wins over Ken Stone and Jeff Curran. He’s a good fighter with plenty of skills.

Jorgensen is the toughest test of Barao’s career, but I expect him to pass it with flying colors. Make no mistake about it, though: Jorgensen is not an easy win, and it will be a true indicator of just how good Barao can be. He’s looked great in going against fighters on the Brazilian indie circuit, but Jorgensen represents an entirely different level of competition.

That said, I believe Barao will prove in this fight that he’s a dangerous competitor. A win here could earn him a title shot against the winner of Dominick Cruz vs. Urijah Faber, and I expect for him to capitalize. This is Renan Barao’s coming-out party.